New Delhi: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has called for the immediate development of sixth generation aero engine technologies, asserting that India must move beyond incremental progress and position itself at the forefront of global defence innovation.
During a visit to Bengaluru, Singh inaugurated a modern Missile Integration facility at Bharat Electronics Limited and reviewed ongoing indigenous engine programmes at the Gas Turbine Research Establishment under the Defence Research and Development Organisation. The visit also featured the flagging off of the third and fourth regiment combat systems of the Akash missile and the unveiling of a specialised Mountain Fire Control Radar designed for high altitude operations.
Addressing scientists and industry representatives, the minister said India is progressing steadily towards the development of the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft, but emphasised that ambitions must now extend further. He noted that while significant efforts have been made in the past to master aero engine technology, the country must now complete that journey and simultaneously initiate work on next generation systems.
Singh stressed that research into sixth generation engines is essential, particularly as artificial intelligence, machine learning and advanced materials increasingly shape modern warfare. He described aero engine development as a highly complex undertaking that combines thermodynamics, material science and advanced mechanical engineering, adding that success in this domain is central to the vision of a developed India by 2047.
Referring to Operation Sindoor, he said indigenous communication systems, surveillance platforms and strike capabilities have already proven effective in operational scenarios, strengthening morale within the armed forces and reinforcing public confidence in domestic capabilities.
The minister also encouraged closer collaboration between defence public sector undertakings, start ups and academic institutions. He said integrating artificial intelligence, autonomous platforms and cyber defence solutions is transforming the nature of conflict, and urged rapid innovation to establish India as a global leader in defence technology and exports.
